How does modern medicine explain the insights found in Donguibogam? Modern clinical practice recognizes xerostomia not merely as an inconvenience, but as a significant condition that lowers quality of life. Translating fluid deficiency into modern terms, it describes a state where salivary gland hypofunction reduces saliva production or degrades the quality of the saliva itself.
Xerostomia can arise from a wide variety of causes. First, medication use is one of the most common factors. Hundreds of drugs, including treatments for hypertension, antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics, list reduced salivary secretion as a side effect. If you take multiple prescriptions, this possibility is worth considering.
Second, autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren syndrome can be responsible. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks its own salivary glands and lacrimal glands, resulting in chronic xerostomia and dry eye. It frequently coexists with other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Third, cancer therapies such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy can damage the salivary glands. In head and neck cancer, radiation exposure to the salivary glands can cause permanent injury, resulting in severe xerostomia.
Fourth, endocrine diseases such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism can lead to xerostomia. Poor blood glucose regulation or hormonal imbalance disrupts fluid metabolism, which impairs saliva production.
Fifth, psychological factors including chronic stress, anxiety, and depression play a substantial role. When levels of the stress hormone cortisol rise, the autonomic nervous system is disrupted, suppressing the parasympathetic nervous system that stimulates saliva flow. Many people notice their mouth drying out during restless nights or periods of severe stress.
Sixth, aging naturally contributes as well. As the body ages, salivary gland function gradually declines and overall saliva volume decreases.
Xerostomia causes problems beyond everyday discomfort, contributing to dental caries, gum disease, halitosis, dysphagia, and difficulty wearing dentures. Saliva plays essential roles in cleansing the oral cavity, suppressing bacteria, and supporting tooth remineralization. It should never be ignored. If you experience these symptoms, consulting a specialist is strongly recommended.
